Support Local

Explore. Enjoy. Tell a friend

The Mornington Peninsula is rightly famous for its stunning coastal beaches, but the reality is so much more. The cooler months are a perfect time to get out and explore. The added benefit is while experiencing our local delights, you are meeting local people and supporting local business. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Take a drive through the rolling hills of the Peninsula’s hinterland, discovering villages on the way. Photo opportunities abound, and you will come across cellar doors, olive groves, apple orchards and market gardens. Pop into a farmgate and pick up your fresh fruit and vegies for the week. Explore the smaller Western Port villages with a stop at Flinders, Merricks or Balnarring. Or venture further to Tyabb, renowned for its antiques.

Most weekends around the Peninsula you will be able to find a local craft and farmers market where you can meet the makers and the growers. If that’s not enough, every Wednesday market stalls line Mornington’s Main St displaying their plants, produce and crafts among the shops and cafes. Don’t overeat before you head to the markets, as you will want to taste some of the delicious homemade treats. However, do take a bag or basket to carry your purchases home.

Rug up and explore your local area as you enjoy a Mornington Peninsula walk. Find a trail that slowly meanders or challenge yourself with a hike through one of the region’s national parks. Got a fur-baby you want to share your walk with? Why not follow the Red Hill Rail Trail from Red Hill South to Merricks, passing wineries as you go and coffee shops at either end – what’s not to love? Or grab something to go from the Mount Martha village shops, then take in the audio trail as you stroll along the sheltered Balcombe Estuary boardwalk to a perfect picnic spot at The Briars.

The Mornington Peninsula is home to award-winning chefs and winemakers who passionately share their love of our local produce in their menus and wine lists. Spend time with family in favourite beachside cafes, take a drive through Red Hill and Main Ridge to a scenic winery, or head to our vibrant industrial estates for a brewery or distillery experience.

In fact, there are so many places to explore, it’s sometimes hard to know where to start! If you are unsure which market is on and when, pop into your local visitor information centre. They love a chance to share their local Peninsula with you and can help with up-to-date information and the best new experiences to try.

Find more inspiration at www.mpbusiness.com.au/experience-local and share your favourite local experiences #ExploreOurLocal

MORNINGTON PENINSULA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

A: 359B Point Nepean Rd, Dromana T: 5950 1579

W: www.mpbusiness.com.au/experience-local

E: info@tourism.mornpen.vic.gov.au